LURAY, Va. — Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced $5.4 million in grant awards to support local economic development across Virginia, with the town of Luray receiving one of the largest individual grants.
According to a media release from the governor’s office, the statewide funding will support 30 regional initiatives aimed at revitalizing historic commercial districts, repurposing vacant buildings, and expanding small businesses.
“We are thrilled to partner with business and community leaders to launch projects that will create jobs and strengthen these historic downtowns,” said Youngkin.
The full funding package includes more than $4.5 million from the Industrial Revitalization Fund for eight projects, $570,000 in Virginia Main Street grants awarded to 17 communities, and $325,000 in Community Business Launch grants supporting five initiatives.
The investment is expected to help launch or grow 19 businesses, create 142 jobs, and attract more than $17.6 million in additional public and private funding.
The governor emphasized the importance of these investments in strengthening local economies and fostering long-term growth throughout the Commonwealth.
Luray was one of only two communities to receive the top-tier $1 million award.
Town officials plan to use the grant to renovate a former art gallery and warehouse located at 15 Campbell Street.
While the specific plans for the renovation and future use of the space have not been finalized, the project is part of a broader effort to boost economic activity and preserve historical infrastructure in the popular tourist town.
“I look forward to seeing these projects create opportunity and prosperity for the Virginia communities that make our state the best place to live, work, raise a family, and do business,” said Youngkin.
Luray is a rural area in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, known for it’s world-famous caverns and proximity to Shenandoah National Park. The town, located in Page County, is approximately 90 miles west of Washington, D.C.